Name: One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 38 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons avocado oil (divided); 1 1/2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs (diced into bite-sized pieces); 1 onion (diced); 3 garlic cloves (minced); 2-2 inch pieces fresh turmeric ((about 2 tablespoons)); 2 carrots (diced); 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon parsley; 1 teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 teaspoon turmeric ((dried)); 2-½ cups chicken broth; 1 cup long grain white rice; 1/2 medium cauliflower (cut into florets (about 2 cups)); 1/2 cup frozen green peas; Cilantro (for garnish); lemon wedges (for garnish)

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As the leaves turn and a chill fills the air, there’s nothing quite like a comforting dish to warm you up. That’s where my love for One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice comes in. This dish is not just about nourishing your body; it’s about creating memories in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made it; the vibrant color of the turmeric and the aroma of spices filled my kitchen, drawing my family in like moths to a flame. With each bite, we savored not just the flavors but also the togetherness it brought. One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice has become a staple in our home, especially during the fall, when comfort food is a must.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
38 mins

Prep Time:
10 mins

Cook Time:
28 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
35 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Large Pot, Wooden Spoon, Cutting Board, Mixing Bowl

The Appeal of This One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice

It’s a Complete Meal

What I truly love about One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice is that it’s all in one pot. This means less cleanup and more time spent enjoying the dish with family or friends. The combination of chicken, rice, and a medley of vegetables creates a balanced meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.

Nutritional Powerhouse

Turmeric, the star of this dish, is packed with health benefits. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is believed to aid digestion. When combined with the lean protein of chicken and fiber-rich vegetables like carrots and cauliflower, you have a dish that not only tastes great but also nourishes your body.

Easy to Customize

This recipe is incredibly flexible. You can easily adjust the spices, add in your favorite vegetables, or even switch the protein based on what you have available. I often find myself using whatever I have in the fridge, and it still turns out delicious every time!

Perfect for Weeknights

After a long day, the last thing you want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. This recipe is straightforward and quick, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights. In just a little over half an hour, you can have a hearty meal ready to go.

Family-Friendly

Kids love it! The appealing yellow color and mild flavors usually win over even picky eaters. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some vegetables without them even noticing. I’ve had many parents ask me for this recipe after their kids devoured every bite!

What You’ll Need for One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice

Gathering the right ingredients can make or break a dish, and for One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice, it’s all about the fresh flavors and wholesome components. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating a harmony that’s not only delicious but also nourishing. The chicken serves as the protein base, while the turmeric adds that beautiful golden hue, accompanied by crunchy veggies that bring texture and flavor. Let’s dive into what you’ll need.

2 tablespoons avocado oil, divided
1 1/2 lbs. boneless skinless chicken thighs, diced into bite-sized pieces
1 onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
2-2 inch pieces fresh turmeric (about 2 tablespoons)
2 carrots, diced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon parsley
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
1 teaspoon turmeric (dried)
2-½ cups chicken broth
1 cup long grain white rice
1/2 medium cauliflower, cut into florets (about 2 cups)
½ cup frozen green peas
Cilantro and lemon wedges for garnish

Recipe Directions for One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice

Making One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice is a simple pleasure that anyone can enjoy. The steps are easy to follow, and the results are incredibly rewarding. Let’s get cooking!

Start by heating a 12-inch heavy-bottomed high-sided pan over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the avocado oil and the chicken pieces. Cook them until they begin to brown, which should take about 5 to 7 minutes. You want them to get a nice golden color. Once browned, remove them from the pan and set them aside.
Next, in the same pan, add the onions and carrots. Cook these for about 3 to 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. This will be the base of your dish, so make sure they’re well-cooked.
Now it’s time to add the fresh turmeric, garlic, and all the spices. Toast them for about 30 seconds. This step will really enhance their flavors and aromas.
Pour in the chicken stock and be sure to scrape up any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. These bits add so much flavor to your dish. Once that’s done, add the rice, cauliflower, and the browned chicken. Stir everything together until well combined.
Spread the mixture evenly in the pan, ensuring that the veggies and chicken are pushed into the liquid as much as possible. This helps everything cook evenly.
Let the mixture come to a boil. Once boiling, cover it with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to medium-low. This will allow the rice to cook properly.
Cook for 20 minutes. You’ll notice the kitchen filling with a wonderful aroma during this time.
After 20 minutes, turn off the heat. Quickly remove the lid and sprinkle the frozen green peas over the top. Close the lid again and let it steam for an additional 5 minutes. This will make the peas tender and vibrant.
Finally, fluff the dish with a fork. Garnish with some fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of lemon juice for that extra zing. Serve immediately and watch everyone enjoy!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking times may vary: Depending on the brand of rice you use, cooking times can fluctuate. Always check for doneness.
Quality of spices matters: The freshness of your spices can greatly influence the flavor. Use fresh and good-quality turmeric and cumin.
Use a heavy pot: A heavy-bottomed pot retains heat better and helps prevent burning.
Resting time is crucial: Letting the dish sit after cooking allows flavors to meld and improves texture.

Variations to Try

If you’re looking to mix things up, One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice offers endless possibilities. Here are some variations to explore that will keep the dish exciting!

Add different proteins: Feel free to substitute the chicken with turkey or tofu for a plant-based option.
Incorporate seasonal vegetables: Depending on the time of year, try adding zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach to boost nutrition and flavor.
Experiment with grains: While white rice is traditional, consider using brown rice or quinoa for a different texture and taste.
Adjust the spices: Feel free to play around with the spice levels, adding more cumin or even a dash of cayenne for some heat.
Garnishes: Top with toasted nuts or seeds for an added crunch, or a dollop of yogurt for creaminess.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Freezing: This dish freezes well! Portion it out into freezer-safe containers for quick meals later.

What Goes Well With This One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice

Serving One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice opens up a world of culinary possibilities! Not only is it a complete meal, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments.

Fresh Salad: A light salad of mixed greens with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
Yogurt Sauce: A cooling yogurt sauce with herbs can provide a delightful balance to the spices in the chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Consider serving with a side of roasted seasonal vegetables for added texture and flavor.
Flatbread: Warm naan or pita bread is perfect for scooping up the chicken and rice.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or even meal prepping for the week.
Storage Tips: Store any leftovers in airtight containers to keep them fresh. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Seasonal Pairings: During fall, pair this dish with roasted squash or pumpkin for a festive touch.

FAQ

You can definitely use brown rice in One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice. However, keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook than white rice. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, typically extending it by 10 to 15 minutes. Make sure to also increase the liquid in the recipe slightly to ensure the rice has enough moisture to cook through.

Absolutely! One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice is perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes well, making it a great option for quick meals later on. Simply reheat thoroughly before serving, and it will taste just as delicious as the first time!

This dish pairs beautifully with a range of sides. Consider serving it with a fresh salad, yogurt sauce, or even some warm naan or pita bread. You could also add some roasted vegetables on the side for extra flavor and nutrition. The options are limitless!

Yes! To make One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice vegetarian, simply omit the chicken and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add more vegetables or even chickpeas for protein. This way, you can still enjoy the vibrant flavors and comforting texture without the meat!

Conclusion

One Pot Turmeric Chicken and Rice is a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a way to share love and warmth with family and friends. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; you might just find it becoming a regular in your kitchen!